Pork Chops With Orange Pilaf
Juicy pork chops glazed with bright orange zest and a comforting pilaf of rice and noodles, blending savory broth with citrusy sweetness—ideal for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large, heavy skillet, heat the shortening or some of the fat trimmed from the pork chops.
- Add the pork chops and brown slowly on both sides over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Remove the chops{to} plate.
- Add water, chopped onion, chicken‑flavored bouillon cubes, grated orange rind, celery salt, pepper, raw rice, and broken egg noodles to the skillet.
- Heat the mixture to a boil, stirring until the bouillon cubes dissolve.
- Cook until the rice and noodles are tender and the liquid is absorbed, then serve the pork chops atop the orange pilaf.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the pork chops in orange juice for a few hours before cooking. If you don't have chicken-flavored bouillon cubes, vegetable stock can be a great substitute. Adjust the celery salt to your taste, and feel free to add other vegetables such as peas or carrots to the pilaf for extra nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pork chops with the orange pilaf for a delightful combination. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with a light white wine, enhancing the citrus notes of the orange pilaf. For more hearty options, explore other American recipes like Spinach And Lentil Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover pork chops and orange pilaf in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the pilaf seems dry. Ensure the pork is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chops With Orange Pilaf contains roughly 1657 calories, with 12g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 155g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (23% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but note that it will require a longer cooking time and more water. Adjust the liquid to about 3 cups and simmer until the rice is tender, which may take around 40-45 minutes.
What if I don't have egg noodles?
If you don't have egg noodles, you can substitute with regular pasta or omit them entirely. The pilaf will still be delicious with just the rice, or you can add some cooked quinoa for a different texture.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to the pilaf mixture. You can also serve the pork chops with a spicy salsa or hot sauce on the side.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).